Woman accuses BJP leader of rape

A 50-year-old woman has alleged rape and cheating against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former MLA Madhu Chavan, 65.

A 50-year-old woman has alleged rape and cheating against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former MLA Madhu Chavan, 65.

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The police are yet to make an arrest in the case. The woman approached the Kalachowkie police on Tuesday after which her statement was recorded and a case registered.

Police said the woman has alleged that they were in a relationship from 1993 and that Chavan had allegedly promised her marriage.

“According to the woman’s allegations, Chavan sexually assaulted her on several occasions. The woman said Chavan had falsely told her that he would leave his wife for her,” said a police officer from Kalachowkie police station.

The woman got acquainted with Chavan while they were working together in the same party. The woman alleged that she was raped at several locations in Mumbai and outside. As per procedure, the police will conduct a medical examination of the victim if she cooperates.

Another senior police officer said, “The woman in her complaint stated that she was cheated as Chavan had promised her a flat but didn't stand by his word. The officer said, “The woman said they had gone through a religious wedding ceremony that was solemnised in 2005.”

The Kalachowkie police have registered a case under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 376 (rape), 420 (cheating) and 493 (cohabitation caused by a man deceitfully inducing a belief of lawful marriage).